DURHAM, N.C.- North Carolina Central senior defensive lineman Teryl White has been extended an NFL free agent contract by the St. Louis Rams.

A 6-5, 295-pound native of Macon, Ga., White finished his NCCU career with 158 tackles, including 30.5 tackles for a loss and 7.5 sacks, during 34 games from 2007-10.

He found out about the Rams' interest during a statistical analysis test Tuesday morning on the campus of NCCU.

"I was sitting in my statistics class taking a test when I got a text from my agent saying, 'Please answer your phone if you can, the Rams are trying to reach you,'" White said. "Luckily I was almost done with my test because it was hard to think about anything other than getting that phone call."

White finished the exam and left the class when the phone rang, it was the Rams on the other end. Coming into the day the former Eagles' defensive lineman had gained interest from a number of other NFL teams, but when the phone call was complete, White knew he was getting the chance to chase his dream.

"I had kind of an outburst halfway between the library and the cafeteria," said White, explaining the loud roar that echoed around campus. "I just had to let out my excitement. I think I scared a few professors."

All he is waiting on now are his travel details and then White must focus on the difficult task ahead as the Rams are bringing him in as a defensive tackle.

"The excitement is kind of dwindling at this point because I realize this is only a first step, and in no way guarantees me a spot on the roster," said White. "The Rams say they like my size and that I have a prototypical body for that position. I understand there is a short window of opportunity to prove myself, but I think I have a real good shot to get on the roster."